Susan Frissell, Editor, womenwithwheels

The Genesis G70 and its sibs are beautiful sedans, priced fairly and offer goodies some sedans in this category offer as options. The Genesis G70 is a sedan I came very close to buying, but hesitated to pull the trigger, so at the last minute, lost it to another buyer. This was over a year ago, so being that lucky now may not be in the picture for this buyer. I’ve been driving a 2014 Nissan Maxima for almost five years and have become accustomed to the 300-horse offered, the quiet, comfortable road manners it offers. I’m also a fan of the ‘old fashioned’ CD player it has, as well as the ease of using the Nav system.

So, I suppose, if I update with a newer Maxima, it had better be sooner than later as manufacturers begin to offer only electric and hybrid vehicles. I’m not ready for that.

The 2022 Genesis G70 sedan we tested was the 3.3T V-6 with 365 horsepower. The 2022 has a new look, quite handsome, and our test vehicle was the Himalayan Gray color, an option at $500. Although one sees this color often on the street, it is becoming. Is it worth the extra $500? Not sure. While driving-and this happened when test driving two other G70s-I find myself not 100% sure it is the sedan for me. For instance, I prefer the ride in the Maxima.

Trim levels in the 2022 Genesis G70 include 2.0T std ($37,525), 2.0T std AWD ($39,625), 3.3T std ($42,100), 3.3 *$44,200), 3.3T Launch Edition ($52,500), and 3.3T Launche w/AWD ($54,500). Competition for the Genesis G70 includes the Lexus ES, Acura TLX and Audi A6. True Car’s site ranked the Genesis G70 third in the best midsize luxury sedans category.
New for the 2022 year, the Genesis G70 made a couple of changes, including a large shield grille, twin Hasmark LED headlights, larger showroom matts and a 10.5-inch infotainment display revised driver info display and expanded safety drivers assist.

If there are any ‘cons’ about the G70, one may be its small trunk. Upon first opening the trunk to store some groceries, this writer noticed immediately that it is smaller and lower than most. The rear seat is also a tad cramped and short on legroom. We also prefer the 3.3T engine to the base 4-cylinder; a less powerful engine than rivals.

Lest one ‘assume’ this beautiful sedan is perfect, you might want to take into consideration the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings. They have yet to assign a score on crashworthiness, however in all six crash tests performed, the 2022 Genesis G70 was awarded the highest ranking. However, the car fell short of a Top Safety Pick rating due to the unavailability of adaptive headlights. For instance, the Audi A5 Sportback, and BMW 3 Series are both Top Safety Picks. The Lexus ES and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are rated Top Safety Pick+.

One cannot fault, however, what Hyundai Genesis does well. The interior of the G70 is top-notch. Our test vehicle came equipped with a beautiful white/tan leather interior. Gorgeous. The finishing touches are detailed so well you might think they’re riding in a more expensive sedan. Genesis has outdone themselves with a luxurious cabin, from the seating (comfortable and supportive) to the ease of operation when it comes to getting the temperature just right, to heated seats, to the UN-FRUSTRATING ability to dial in sound, temperature, Nav, etc. All intuitive, all can be figured out by non-car buffs. The premium luxury sedan has style, luxury and performance. Oh, and did we mention, the best warranty available?

There is little to dislike about this sedan. It’s the reason sedans are still sought after and still can provide class, excellent handling, decent mileage, great warranty, and that proud-to-be-the owner.

Also new for 2022 is a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. It replaces the previous 8-inch unit, which was starting to feel small at this price point. The G70’s infotainment system is not only one of the easiest to master, it is packed with features like standard navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The six-speaker AM/FM stereo isn’t anything special, however. Upgrading to the 2.0T Prestige package or 3.3T Sport Advanced or Sport Prestige packages brings a rich-sounding 15-speaker Lexicon surround-sound audio system and a wireless device charger. A row of shortcut keys under the screen allows quick inputs and adjustments with minimal distraction.

As the commercial says: “Yes Please.”

SPECS

MSRP: $44,200; Options: $4800; freight: $1045; Total price $50,045
Engine: 3.3L V6 T-GDI, 365 hp., 376 lb. ft. torque
Transmission: 8-speed, paddle shifters. AWD
Tires: 225/40 R19, 225/45 R18, 255/35R19
Wheels: 19-inch alloy
Mileage: 18/27 mpg.
Fuel Tank: 15.9 gal.
Weight: 3,516 lbs.
Height: 55.1 in.
Length: 184.4 in.
Width: 72.8 in.
Wheelbase: 111.6 in.
Seating: 5
Warranty: 3 yr./36,000-miles, complimentary maintenance, 3 yr./36,000 mile Complementary service valet, 3 yr./Complementary Genesis connected service, 3 yrs./Complimentary map care, Exclusive may apply.